What is Capped Composite Decking?
By Dave KileAs a professional in the decking industry, I’ve often asked: “What exactly is capped composite decking, and why should I choose it?” In this post, I will give a capped composite decking overview, explaining its advantages and disadvantages (which admittedly are few), and how it compares to other decking options.
A quick way to understand capped composite decking is to think of it as a composite deck board encased fully in a protective covering or cap. This cap acts as a shield, protecting the core from moisture, UV rays, and the everyday wear and tear of outdoor living.
I see homeowners choosing capped composite decking for its many advantages over traditional wood decking and its elevated quality over non-capped decking. Known for being low maintenance, durable, water- and damage-resistant, and aesthetically appealing, decking professionals call capped composite decking the “ king of the hill”.
What is Capped Composite Decking?
Capped composite decking material is a modern innovation in outdoor decking that combines a durable composite core with a protective polymer cap.
Typically, the inside of a capped composite deck board is made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastics, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional decking materials. The polymer cap is fused to the core during manufacturing, creating a deck board that’s strong, long-lasting, low-maintenance, and aesthetically versatile.
Traditionally, wood has been the primary choice for decking materials, but we’ve seen an evolution in composite decking. In the 1990s, composite decking disrupted the industry and offered an environmentally friendly, durable option. Early-generation composite boards were vulnerable to damage and moisture. It was around 2010 that I saw capped composite boards enter the market to offer that additional protection.
Since then, capped composite decking has continued to evolve and improve. It’s become a popular choice of homeowners and a highly recommended product by those in the homebuilding and decking profession.
Advantages of Capped Composite Decking
One of the reasons I’m a big advocate for capped composite decking is its long list of advantages.
Low Maintenance
Unlike traditional wood, capped composite decking doesn’t require staining, sealing, or regular upkeep to keep it looking great. Installing capped composite decking professionally (I always recommend that homeowners find a builder) gives homeowners added assurance. A simple cleaning with soap and water is probably all the effort they’ll need to invest in their deck’s upkeep and appearance.
Durability
The protective cap prevents issues like splintering, warping, and rotting, even in hot or harsh climates. The polymer cap protects against spills, stains, and UV rays, keeping the deck’s color vibrant over time. Homeowners can expect a composite decking lifespan to be between 25 and 30 years; some have warranties of up to 50 years.
Environmental Benefits
Many capped composite boards are made from recycled materials — wood fibers and plastics. In fact, according to Custom Deck Creations, a 500-square-foot capped composite deck is made of over 140,000 recycled plastic bags! I think we can all feel good about that and how capped composite decking reduces environmental impact while providing a sustainable decking solution.
Aesthetic Appeal
Available in a range of colors, textures, and finishes, capped composite decking can mimic the look of natural wood while offering superior performance. Manufacturing processes can create capped composite deck boards that look similar to natural wood grains. Unlike natural wood, which can fade, gray, or discolor without regular maintenance, capped composite decking retains its vibrant finish thanks to the UV-resistant polymer cap.
Based on construction and material composition, many capped composite decking brands offer boards in different widths, allowing homeowners to experiment with unique designs, such as wide-plank decks or mixed-width patterns. Additionally, some boards feature complementary fascia, stair treads, and railing systems for a seamless and polished look.
Disadvantages of Capped Composite Decking
While capped composite decking has plenty of benefits, it has a couple of drawbacks. These include higher initial costs and heat retention.
Higher Initial Cost
Capped composite decking is generally more expensive upfront compared to traditional wood decking. However, the reduced maintenance costs often balance this over time.
When looking at cost considerations, decking materials can vary depending on brand, quality, and region, but here’s a breakdown of typical material costs:
- Capped composite – up to about $12 per square foot
- Uncapped composite – up to about $7 per square foot
- Traditional wood – up to about $5 per square foot
Installation is an additional cost, as well as intricate designs and styles. But the installation and versatility of composite decking give homeowners more choices and, often, more peace of mind.
While capped composite has higher upfront costs, I tell homeowners that they will save money in the long run due to reduced maintenance and greater longevity. Traditional wood decking, while initially cheaper, requires consistent upkeep, which can equal or exceed the cost of capped composite over 10–15 years.
Heat Retention
In hot climates and direct sunlight, capped composite boards can retain heat more than wood, which may make them less comfortable for bare feet. Dark-colored boards retain more heat than lighter-colored boards.
Comparison with Other Decking Options
I’ve shared about capped composite’s advantages and disadvantages, now let’s look at how it compares to other decking options.
Capped Composite vs Traditional Wood
Capped composite decking is a modern, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. Unlike wood, which requires regular staining and sealing to prevent rot, warping, and insect damage, capped composite features a protective polymer cap that shields it from these same nuisances. While traditional wood boasts natural beauty and unique character, it is prone to fading, splintering, and graying over time. Capped composite, on the other hand, retains its vibrant color and durability with minimal upkeep — and its design options closely mimic that of natural wood.
Although capped composite decking has a higher upfront cost, it has long-term savings by eliminating the need for frequent maintenance. Traditional wood is initially less expensive, but its upkeep costs can add up over time.
Capped Composite vs Uncapped Composite
Capped composite decking represents a significant upgrade over uncapped composite. The addition of a polymer cap provides enhanced protection against moisture, mold, stains, and fading. Uncapped composite, by contrast, is more vulnerable to water absorption, leading to issues like mold growth, discoloration, and structural degradation over time. These drawbacks gave early composite decking a bad reputation, which capped composite has successfully addressed.
In terms of aesthetics, capped composite offers a broader range of colors, textures, and finishes, often with fade-resistant properties. Uncapped composite lacks the same level of visual sophistication and durability.
Capped Composite vs PVC Decking
Capped composite and PVC decking are both low-maintenance alternatives to wood, but they differ in material and performance. Capped composite combines a wood-plastic core with a protective polymer cap, offering a natural, wood-like appearance. PVC decking, made entirely of synthetic plastic, is 100% waterproof and ideal for high-moisture areas, such as pool decks or docks. However, PVC often looks less natural and retains more heat, making it less comfortable in hot climates.
Conclusion
With all of its advantages, I recommend that capped composite decking is a great option for homeowners looking for a durable, attractive outdoor space. With a protective cap over the composite board core, capped composite deck boards shield against UV rays, moisture, and daily wear and tear. It’s known for being damage-resistant and worry-free, worth the higher upfront costs. Capped composite decking is becoming a more popular choice for homeowners and the industry standard.
Sources:
Fiberon, Sept. 22, 2022 “Capped Composite Decking: What It Is, and Why You Need It”
Green Squares, Sept. 17, 2020 “What Does ‘Capped Composite Decking’ Mean?
Decks.com, Feb. 5, 2016 “Capped Composite Decking: What Is It?”
https://www.decks.com/how-to/articles/capped-composite-decking-what-is-it
Trex Protect, Dave Kile, “How Long Does Composite Decking Last?”
https://trexprotect.com/blog/how-long-does-composite-decking-last/
Envision Outdoor Living, “The Difference Between Capped and Uncapped Composite Decking”
https://envisionoutdoorliving.com/capped-vs-uncapped/
New Tech Wood, “Capped Vs. Uncapped Composite Decking”
https://www.newtechwood.com/about-us/capped-vs-non-capped/
